CombiPatch is a type of hormone therapy for menopausal women who still have a fully intact uterus. This prescription treatment contains two types of hormones: estradiol, a type of estrogen; and norethindrone, a type of progestin. CombiPatch is administered as a transdermal patch affixed to the skin that is replaced with a new patch every 3 to 4 days.
Stomach Upset
While using CombiPatch, patients may experience stomach upset side effects such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, or abdominal cramping or pain, Drugs.com warns. These side effects are typically temporary and progressively subside during the first few months of CombiPatch treatment. Severe vomiting, especially if it occurs in conjunction with headache, should be discussed with a medical professional as soon as possible.
Vaginal Bleeding or Breast Pain
Unusual vaginal bleeding may occur in menopausal women receiving treatment with CombiPatch. Women may notice small amounts of blood on toilet paper after going to the bathroom or along their underwear. CombiPatch may also lead to side effects of breast discomfort or tenderness in treated women. In fact, between 25 and 31 percent of women reported breast pain during clinical trials for this hormone therapy, according to Novartis, the pharmaceutical distributor of CombiPatch. Women who develop severe or persistent vaginal bleeding or unusual lumps within the breast tissue while using this therapy should consult a doctor immediately.
Hair Loss or Headache
Women treated with CombiPatch may develop mild hair loss across the scalp as a side effect. The scalp hair may appear unusually sparse or thin, or affected women may notice an increase in the amount of hair lost during normal washing or brushing. Side effects of head pain may also arise, which may disrupt a woman's ability to remain attentive or focused during daily activities.
Nasal Congestion
Increased nasal congestion or irritation may occur in women who use CombiPatch, Drugs.com warns. Nasal congestion may cause women to frequently blow their nose to expel excess mucus from the nasal passageways. A stuffy nose may also interfere with a woman's ability to breathe normally through her nose.
Yeast Infection
Between 6 and 13 percent of women who used CombiPatch during clinical trials developed vaginitis, or a vaginal yeast infection, as a side effect of treatment, according to RxList. Symptoms of vaginitis include vaginal itching, irritation or odor and abnormal vaginal discharge. Women who develop these side effects while using CombiPatch should contact a physician. Additional medication may be necessary to resolve vaginal infection symptoms.
Vision Changes or Dizziness
Unusual vision changes, such as blurred vision, accompanied by dizziness or lightheadedness should be discussed with a doctor immediately if such side effects emerge during CombiPatch treatment, PDRhealth advises. Lightheadedness or vision alternations may exacerbate headache side effects in certain women.
Member Comments